Thank goodness for family and friends

Apparently, a tiny angel was sent to me just a few days into 2011, delivered by a customer of my previous employer. Ellie (the customer), came into the office several times, and we got to talking.

She knew I was going through a rough time and that I had much love to give. I so badly wanted a puppy. I felt it was time; I was finally an adult and feeling responsible enough to care for an animal.

After spending a few days with my new Shih-Tzu and Chihuahua mix, I named her Ginger; Ginger Ale Schlenker to be exact.

When Ellie brought her to me in a gift bag, as a belated Christmas gift, my heart was full of love.

After begging my landlord to let me keep her, Ginger and I began our lives together. She was with me wherever I went until I started my new job here at the Daily Sun. Within days of owning her, she had destroyed all of my shoes, my glasses and the cord to my phone charger. But I didn't care, I loved her anyway. I paraded her around and all my friends and family got to know and love her, too.

When I had to leave her home more often, I acquired a friend for her named Abby (a mini Dachshund). Abby and Ginger were all the responsibility I had, and were there for me unconditionally. Ginger had more personality than I knew what to do with, and truthfully, we are much alike. We are sassy, stubborn and caring.

When Abby recently gave birth to six beautiful puppies, Ginger and I became even closer.

Then this past Friday, exactly one year and two days after meeting Ginger, my heart felt as though it was literally ripped from my chest.

A puppy had died and I was taking it outside when Ginger escaped out the front door. I tried to call her back but she was killed by an oncoming car.

It was then I knew how much my friends and family really loved me.

My dad dropped everything he was doing and was at my house in less than 10 minutes from when the accident occurred. My roommate and her friend took care of things, so that my recent memories of Ginger could be happy and good.

Throughout the weekend many of my friends and family members have come to visit and I even received calls from out of state. Though I know I didn't lose a family member or close friend, I did lose my puppy, which I poured all my love and time into. She slept at my feet, and showed me unconditional love.

But through this sad time in my life, I realize now more than ever how blessed I truly am with caring, thoughtful and loving people.

Perhaps 2012 will be the mark of a season of thankfulness for the people in my life.